Heart Disease Prevention Guide: Diet

Recommendation: Reduce saturated fat intake to no more than 10 percent of total calories.Rationale: Saturated fat and cholesterol lead to atherosclerosis.Notes: Avoid hydrogenated oils and animal products except cold-water fish.

Recommendation: Minimize alcohol consumption to no more than one glass of wine or beer/day.Rationale: An occasional glass of alcohol can improve digestion and raise HDLs.Notes: Alcohol should not be used as a primary preventive measure.

Recommendation: Reduce salt consumption to no more than 2,400 mg/day.Rationale: High salt intake can lead to high blood pressure.Notes: Eliminating canned and processed foods is an easy way to cut back on salt.